What Are Modular Walls? When to Use Them (and When Not To)
Updated September 3, 2025
Temporary modular walls are no longer a novelty—they’re now the smart, sustainable alternative to drywall, especially for commercial and healthcare projects. But when should you use them? And which type is right for your needs?
Let’s unpack what makes modular wall systems so effective, and how to choose the right solution for your project.
Types of Modular Wall Systems: What You Need to Know
The term “modular wall” includes a wide range of solutions:
Temporary wall systems
Dust containment barriers
Room dividers or portable partitions
Fire-rated containment panels
Healthcare-specific ICRA-compliant barriers
Each option is designed for specific applications—from simple room separation to critical barriers in hospitals or data centers.
💡 Pro Tip: Always start with the intent of your wall. Is it for aesthetics, privacy, infection control, or fire safety?
Residential vs. Commercial Use Cases
Residential solutions prioritize:
Simplicity
Portability
Light-duty use
Think of accordion-style room dividers or folding privacy screens—quick to set up, but not meant for rugged environments.
Commercial modular walls, like those from STARC, offer:
Superior aesthetics and durability
Fire and infection control compliance
Quick installs and reusability
Noise attenuation
These features aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re essential for high-stakes environments like hospitals, airports, and data centers.
Divide or Contain? Know the Difference
This decision determines everything:
Basic dividers (e.g., zippered plastic or thin partitions) may suffice for short-term, low-security uses.
Temporary wall systems need airtight seals, negative air integration, and may require compliance with ICRA, ASTM E119, and more.
Use modular walls when:
You're working in occupied healthcare settings
Your project requires infection control (ICRA Class IV or V)
Fire safety (one-hour fire rating) is critical
You need noise reduction or security compliance
Sustainability and reusability are priorities
When to Replace Drywall With Modular Systems
Drywall is heavy, time-consuming, and not reusable. According to STARC’s report, it’s also hiding “true costs” like labor delays, waste, and poor aesthetics.
STARC modular walls, by contrast:
Install 4x faster than drywall
Are reusable for 100+ projects
Reduce dust and noise exposure
Can be easily branded or disinfected
Save up to 5 tons of landfill waste per 100 feet
How To Choose the Right Modular Wall System
Use this checklist:
Need for infection control (ICRA Class IV/V)?
Fire-rating requirements (ASTM E84, E119, NFPA 241)?
Long-term ROI through reusability?
Quick setup and minimal disruption?
Brand aesthetics or sound attenuation needed?
If you checked more than two, drywall is not your best option.
Modular Wall Systems FAQ
Q: Are modular walls reusable?Yes. STARC’s walls can be reused for years without losing structural integrity.Q: How fast can they be installed?With STARC, up to 100 linear feet per hour, significantly faster than traditional drywall.Q: Do modular walls meet infection control standards?Absolutely. STARC temporary walls exceed ICRA Class IV/V requirements.Q: Are they sustainable?Yes—STARC modular temporary walls are up to 95% recyclable by weight and made in a facility powered by 100% renewable energy.
Final Thoughts: Why Modular Walls Are the Smarter Choice
Whether you’re renovating a hospital, securing a data center, or managing an airport project, modular wall systems provide the durability, compliance, and speed that drywall can’t. They not only save time and money but also protect your reputation by keeping projects safe, quiet, and undisruptive.
The bottom line: if your project requires flexibility, compliance, and sustainability—temporary modular walls are the clear winner.